So true! I'm reading a book about rational living. It deals with how our perceptions influence our thoughts, behaviors & moods. I really need to change a lot of my perceptions, because they are causing me to feel depressed & very bad about myself. My doc is working with me to learn how to rethink & not automatically jump to negative conclusions. She gives me assignments to do--dealing with situations where I get sad or angry due to my perceptions & writing how these perceptions are not necessarily true & that I can change my thoughts & core beliefs.

My perceptions often come from "mind reading." I think I know what my husband is thinking & it's always bad--I'm too heavy; I quit playing tennis due to my being unable to handle the stress of matchs, therefore, he thinks I'm lazy & weak-minded, etc.

I have beliefs that are not based in reality. I don't have any evidence that points to these beliefs (I'm worthless, I'm incompetent, etc.), but they color all my thoughts & actions.

I practice "thought stopping" to keep me from spiraling down because of a negative perception. I'm not very good at it yet, but I think in time I will be able to exchange my negative stuff for more realistic thoughts--like I have flaws, but that doesn't mean I'm worthless. I'm overweight, but that doesn't determine whether I have good self-esteem or not. I don't need to punish myself for the rest of my life for the things I've done when manic or depressed.--Suzy